Best Dispersed Camping near Gunnison, CO

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Gunnison, CO is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Gunnison is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Gunnison camping trip.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Gunnison, Colorado (108)

    1. Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "Fire metal rings, pit toilets in few areas. No water, no garbage (might be garbage at entrance?). Roads spread throughout, pretty rough in some areas. Plenty of places here, views are pretty cool."

    "This area is large and has tons of dispersed campsites, but they’re connected by a network of bumpy and rocky roads."

    2. Hartman’s Rocks Dispersed Site

    7 Reviews
    Gunnison, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 642-4940

    "I got out here around 7:30 and got the first one I could find, there’s a bunch of roads so it’s kind of a pick your own adventure deal. ended up about 200 yards from the next site but that didn’t bother"

    "Dispersed camping with designated sites off dirt roads. Perfect place to rock climb, hike or dirt bike or ATV."

    3. Jack’s Cabin Pass

    2 Reviews
    Almont, CO
    14 miles

    "Stayed at the first site off the dirt road through the parking area to the left of the main dirt road. High clearance needed for sure; but made it up the road in a stock Subaru Forester. Camp ring."

    4. Red Creek Rd Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
    17 miles

    "The dispersed site is pretty level, has a fire ring, will see some traffic going further up the road (could be nicer sites?)."

    "Existing campsites lots of space"

    5. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    57 Reviews
    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO
    43 miles
    Website

    "Nestled right on the access road to Black Canyon of The Gunnison NP, camps did not require a ton of dirt driving to access."

    "This was my first time using Dyrt and accessing BLM/public land. The campgrounds at Black Canyon OTG were packed and hotels in the area were outrageously priced (2-star hotel for $200)."

    6. Red Creek Road

    1 Review
    Powderhorn, CO
    18 miles

    7. Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground

    28 Reviews
    Aspen, CO
    41 miles
    Website

    "The further along the path you travel, the more rugged it becomes; so most people seemingly settled for the first few spots. Personally, site 5, 8, and 11 are best."

    "No water so bring in your own, or filter from the running stream/lake surrounding camp."

    8. Soap Creek Road

    1 Review
    Curecanti National Recreation Area, CO
    22 miles

    "We spent 7 days here in what we refer to as spot#5(the best spot) but be advised any of the spots in this area are difficult to get into unless you have a high clearance vehicle and rig."

    9. Washington Gulch - Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Crested Butte, CO
    28 miles

    "10/10 will go back in a heartbeat. We came on a Sunday-Monday and not a lot of campers. Ton of people driving the pass, hikers, bikers and dirt bikes. This is first come first serve!!"

    "Dry Bathrooms near sites 6-8.

    Bugs not too bad.

    Had several deer sightings while there.

    Chilly nights and nice days.

    Incredible views!"

    10. Soap Creek Camp

    1 Review
    Crawford, CO
    22 miles
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Showing results 1-10 of 108 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gunnison, CO

461 Reviews of 108 Gunnison Campgrounds



Guide to Gunnison

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gunnison, Colorado, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Hartman Rocks Recreation Area

  • Located just a short drive from Gunnison, Hartman Rocks Recreation Area offers easy access to numerous camping sites with plenty of space for tents and RVs.
  • This area is known for its impressive rock formations and extensive trails, making it a great spot for hiking, biking, and exploring.
  • While there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, the stunning views and natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination for those who enjoy a more rugged camping experience.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Gunnison, Colorado

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Hartman’s Rocks Dispersed Site, which can fill up quickly during peak times.
  • Be prepared for a variety of conditions; some roads may be rough, so a vehicle with high clearance is recommended for accessing certain areas.
  • Keep in mind that while some sites offer vault toilets, amenities can be limited, so plan accordingly for waste disposal and water needs.

Amazing rock formations for dispersed campers

  • The unique rock formations at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area are a major draw for campers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, providing a stunning backdrop for your camping experience.
  • Many visitors appreciate the excellent cell coverage in the area, allowing for connectivity while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • With a 14-day camping limit, you can take your time to explore the numerous trails and activities available, from hiking to mountain biking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Gunnison?

Dispersed camping in Gunnison follows standard National Forest rules: pack in/pack out all trash, practice Leave No Trace principles, and use existing fire rings when available. At Jack's Cabin Pass, there are no amenities, so campers must bring all necessary supplies and remove all waste. Camping is generally limited to 14 days within a 30-day period. Most areas require vehicles to stay on established roads, with camping permitted only in previously used sites. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, especially during dry months. Many sites require high-clearance vehicles to access. Bear-safe food storage is mandatory in this region. Always check with Gunnison National Forest offices for current regulations before your trip, as rules can change based on conditions and conservation needs.

When is the best season for dispersed camping around Gunnison?

The prime season for dispersed camping around Gunnison is late June through September when high-elevation roads are typically free of snow and conditions are mild. At Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping, campers report August being peaceful but dry, with no water sources nearby—a common situation in late summer. Early fall (September to early October) offers beautiful aspen colors and fewer crowds at sites like Marshall Pass, though nights get considerably colder. Spring camping can be muddy with lingering snow at higher elevations, making many roads impassable. Weather can change rapidly in any season, so always check road conditions and pack for variable temperatures, even in summer.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Gunnison National Forest?

Gunnison National Forest offers exceptional dispersed camping in several areas. Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground features large sites with bear-proof boxes, though accessing the best spots (particularly sites 5, 8, and 11) requires a capable 4x4 vehicle. For stunning valley views, FSR #689 Dispersed provides flat camping spots in aspen groves overlooking Cebolla Creek, accessible via a two-track dirt road off Highway 149. Other prime locations include Washington Gulch for access to Crested Butte, Red Creek Road for riverside camping, and Marshall Pass Road where numerous sites are spread along creeks. Most locations have no facilities, so come prepared with water and waste disposal plans. Higher elevation spots offer cooler temperatures during summer months.

Is free camping available near Gunnison, Colorado?

Yes, free camping is abundant near Gunnison on Forest Service and BLM lands. North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping offers convenient no-cost camping near Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, ideal for hikers. Similarly, Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area provides free dispersed camping on BLM land near Salida, accessible via dirt roads with multiple sites available. These free areas typically lack amenities—no water sources, trash facilities, or bathrooms—so campers must be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with a typical 14-day stay limit. For reliable access, sites along major forest roads like Soap Creek Road and those near Highway 149 provide easier options for standard vehicles.